Written by Aarohi Narain
This pop-up exhibition in Nakameguro puts a sweet spin on traditional Japanese confectionery.
What happens?
For centuries, wagashi or traditional Japanese confectionery — the kind typically served with matcha — has been tied to seasonality, ritual, and aesthetics in Japan. The shapes, colors, and ingredients are designed to echo fleeting natural moments: the first snow, cherry blossoms opening, or the reddening of maple leaves. This pop-up exhibition picks up that tradition and nudges it somewhere more contemporary.
Created by Tokyo-based artist Xenia Mylash under the name HAODORI, the works turn traditional confectionery techniques into something sculptural and a little dream-like. The theme is “awakening”, and the wagashi here take the form of soft, translucent shapes that suggest petals, droplets, and other half-recognizable forms. Taste with your eyes and mouth.
The opening night will include a staged wagashi dégustation, alongside drinks and a DJ set, and there will be a special tea ceremony experience later in the month.
Schedule
The exhibition runs from April 2 to April 30 at HVEN in Nakameguro.
The opening reception takes place on April 2 from 7 p.m. to midnight.
A special tea ceremony experience is scheduled for April 26.
Tickets
The opening reception does not charge admission separately. Instead, all guests are required to order a ¥1,500 set including a drink and one wagashi.
How to get there
The exhibition takes place at HVEN in Nakameguro, Tokyo. Nakameguro Station is the closest station and is served by the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
